October 19
Friday
Today was a little heck-it. My art class was a disaster. I have been wanting to this panda bear for week now and every time I tried to do it something would stop me, but today I conquered. But it didn’t turn out the way I wanted it to. First off, I thought my kids could cut out simple shape in a reasonable time; NO! They seriously took a half and hour to cut out 5 objects. I had to step in and help them. I felt bad, but I need to get it done. If Art class was happening any other class period it wouldn’t be such a big deal, but Art is the last period of the day. I think I will try putting Art the first period so that I can finish and not rush the kids. I usually do test on Friday and partly Thursday anyway and I get done before the period.
Yesterday I played volleyball. It was so much fun. I will try and make a for sure thing on Tuesday and Thursday @ 4:30. The people here are fun to play with. Sometimes they are ball hogs, but I just need to push my way to the ball, and make sure when I call it I get it; weather that means pushing others out of my way. Last night I got hit in the face with the ball 2 times because someone got in my way of the ball. I called it AND had the better angel and they just stepped in front of me. So the ball bounced off their arms and nailed me in the face. I wasn’t mad, but annoyed.
October 26, 2007
Friday
It’s been a long time since I have been able to blog. I don’t get wireless anymore and I don’t want to spend too much money on internet. If it makes you feel better I have been keeping up on my grading a lot better than the first of the quarter. I do all my grading before I leave for the day. Today I stayed till 1 p.m.; reminder half day on Friday (11:40 a.m.). I wanted to get all of my grades done before the long weekend. Over here we celebrate the king and queens b-day. Kind of strange, but whatever I get the day off. Katrina, Heather and I are planning on going to Sin Uk Vill. Sin Uk Vill is the beach over here. I’m pretty excited to get out of Phenom Pehn.
Oh! So, I told myself I was not going to get a hair cut while I was over because I didn’t want them (locals) to mess it up and chop off all of my hair because of communication problems. But this past week I really wanted to get a trim. On Monday I asked Silim to take me to a salon. She was pretty excited and I nervous. Today was the day to face my fears of the salon, and it turned out not to be so bad. I was pretty happy with the service, lets see they, washed my hair, messaged my face and head, and did my hair all for $2. Talk about Wow! In the states that would of easily cost 30 some dollars.
All I wanted was a trim, which is what they did, but me being the way I am, I wanted layers. So I had to explain what I meant by layers and kind of show them how to do it. I was pretty nerve racking when they pulled out the scissors the second time. I wanted to keep the length for sure though; I said that I don’t know how many times.
As the cosmetologist started again on my hair I watched with a careful eye. At first glance it looked as if she was cutting off lots, but in the end it turned out “ok”. My hair cut was not exactly the way I wanted, but I just keep telling myself that it will grow back.
So, that is my experience with the salon. I know I will be visiting the same beautician next time and tell her no layer just a trim, because I want to let my hair grow back out.
Other than that my day was ok. I made brownies for my kids today. They don’t really like cake. Some complained it bitters; what the heck man, cake is sweet; whatever. I just decided to not make cake anymore. As I sit here Heather is opening another package! Annoying! I have not got one since I have been here. Oh, wait I got a package from WWU. That is pretty pitiful. Whatever I know you still love me, right?
So, heather is ok. She is kind of a control freak and that is starting to annoy me. I just need to tell her to back off. Take this for instance; when ever Katrina and I leave she wants us to leave a note on the white board she bought, tell her where we are going and when we will be back. I just don’t know what to think about her sometimes. I can understand for emergency reason, but that is not her intentions. Another thing, we have to take turns cleaning the house every Friday. I don’t mind that to much, but she reminds us every Thursday night and lists off what we are suppose to do; I’m not a child. It really annoys me when people do that, it just sets me off. If you haven’t noticed I’m venting.
I’m really sorry about not keeping up on my blogspot, but I have been really busy. Next couple of weeks I will be even busier. The first quarter testing is in two weeks. I have to make sure my kids remember everything and can do it all on their own. I’m mostly worried about the luck 5. Oh, I just found out I might be adding another student to my class. She is the little sister of Sopheaktra, really smart student, so I know for sure she will be good. Besides Kim tells me Sopheaktra’s little sister is really smart too. I kind of know how she is because I taught Kim class for 20 minutes on Tuesday.
Here’s the story:
Kim’s kids were being bad and threaten her kids she would have me teach the class and low and behold the kids thought she was bluffing. Once I walked into the classroom the kids didn’t know what to think. They really listened to me, I went over the number 1 through 12 and thought them how to spell one, two, and three. I walked around the room with a ruler and pointed to random students to spell the word. Some of the smarter kids in the class liked the way I taught while others cried. Yes, cried! This one girl in the middle back row started to cry; I didn’t even call on her. I guess I’m a little scarier than I thought. Kim’s kids are the younger kindergarten class; K-A; ages 3-5. Mine is the 6-8, but most of my kids are above and beyond kindergarten level. That is why I’m having such a hard time teaching them information they all ready know. I have to come up with lots of worksheets for them to do, because literally they will wiss though the workbook in 2 months if I don’t. My kids already know the information, but the luck 5 is holding the class back.
Okay, I have written enough for you to know that I’m still alive. Thanks for all your prayers. I will try to keep up on my blog more. My readers may need to read lots at a time because I will usually update a weeks worth in one day like on a Friday or Sunday. Who knows with me? I however want to go to T&C this afternoon to do blogging, but didn’t make it there because of the hair cut and a meeting with the evangelist group. We are planning on going to another church and put on the program. Katrina and I are going to sing special music. We are just going to sing the same song we sang for Vespers a couple weeks ago (I don’t think I told you about that). Okay, bye bye now!
October 28-31
Wednesday
Halloween!!!
Today in Cambodia it’s Halloween. I was thinking I would go around and ask for candy, but knowing this place I would just be chased off. I don’t feel like being put down.
This past week we had 5 days off. It was the king’s b-day. Katrina, Heather, JC and I all went to the beach. We left Sunday morning and got back yesterday. We stayed right on the beach for only $3.75 each for 2 nights and 3 days. The hotel was not all that bad either. It had AC and a warm shower. I didn’t want to spend a lot of money, the whole trip I probably spent $50. Arrived Heather, Katrina and I went swimming and ate at the Holy Cow (restaurant). It was a really nice and calm place to chill. I bought a book called, They First Killed My Father. Its about the reign during the Pol Pot time. Pol Pot over ruled the King and want to bring Cambodia back to its roots. He felt Cambodia was being too westernized. During the Civil war he won (democrats) and forced all the towns’ people into the jungle. He then started his own rule in Cambodia, wanting to purify it. If you were from the city you were automatically considered dead. Pol Pot believe any who could read, write or think for themselves were dangerous to him so he ordered them all to be killed, this includes; teacher, priest, or anyone who wore glasses. Pol Pot wanted no one to over throw him. During Pol Pot’s rein he starved the people and tore families apart. There is a whole line of generation missing from that time. No babies were born, if born they were smashed into palm trees like coconuts, very sad. My book tells the story of a girls survival. She had so many trials to go though; she lost her father, mother, little baby brother, and older sister either from disease or the hand of a soldier. I really do recommend you read this book. Very easy to read and goes by very fast. I just bought it Sunday night and only have 30 pages left in the book. Here is the name once again, First They Killed My Father, by Loung Ung.
Other than me swimming and reading this book we rented moto’s for the day and drove to the waterfalls. It was so cool. I wanted to swim, but didn’t bring anything. I have some pictures and will post them later. I tell you what I will be going back to Sin Uk Vill. Just to let you know I’m spelling it phonetically out because I don’t know exactly how to spell it.
Ok, I need to do some work. We have first quarter testing next week and I need to make up the tests. I sure hope my kids do great. I worry about the luck 5. Today Katrina and I are going to the Russian market to buy a bag for me. I need one to bring to school. The one I have is not big enough for me and is falling apart because I put too much in it.
Hope all is well and once again I will try my best to keep up on my blogspot. Love ya all very much.
I almost forgot about the church thing. It went really good. We drove to the jungle and walked around handing out flyers to invite people to the new church in the area. Really sad how some people live, but its good that they are happy. The kids were really happy to see their picture after I took it. Laughing and giggles filled the village. I will put up picture sometime. Oh! Just a reminder, you know that I have a flicker account where you can look at my pictures. I have all of my kid’s pictures there and more. If you go to my page its under ALL ABOUT ME. Just ready you will find the link. Love Ya!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Been a long time...
October 6
Saturday
B-Day
On my birthday we didn’t do too much, but what do you expect here in Cambodia. No, really it was a good birthday. First off we went to church and after church Fay, Tim, Sharon and Tim provided lunch for me. It was really good. After lunch Fay and Tim took us to these ruins of old kings. We had to climb all theses stairs. Kind of fun! Buddhists believe if you give the beggars money, which the beggars are up and down the stairs to the top, you get good luck. So everyone was asking for money. Little kids were following us up to the top. They were fanning us. The kids just hope you have a heart and give them money for fanning you. I didn’t give money because I didn’t have any. That night we just watched movies at Rithy’s house. Other than that my b-day was good. I enjoyed myself.
October 7
Sunday
Today we were suppose to go to the river, but to many people are sick. So instead I just stayed home and worked on my grades and such, nothing much here. I did get to talk to my family this morning so that was good. Next week we get off Wednesday through Sunday. I’m pretty excited. Oh! Yeah Phil is coming this week. He is our friends from WWU. He is an SM in Thailand. I love Phil he’s so funny. I can’t wait to see what the Khmers think of him because he’s so talk. That reminds me…my brother might be coming to visit me. I will obviously pay for him plane ticket, but I just don’t know when I would want him to come. It would have to be when I have long vacation. This way I could take him to Ankor Wat. I want to go myself sometime. Angelina adopted from there; just a random fact. Heather went to Ankor Wat when we first got here with her pastor from Union College. Hey! Maybe Katrina, Phil and I will go this week.
I have been really worried about Choronei all week. I just keep wondering if he is going to come back. I hope so! I love that kid. I should talk to his brother, he cleans my room in the afternoon. Did I ever tell you? I have helpers now. At school we have this program called Meet me in Heaven. It’s just a work program for the kids to earn money for school. I am supposed to have one helper, but end up having 2 or 3. The girls here don’t do anything by themselves. If one friend has to help they get one of their friends to help out. I don’t mind it because this mean less grading I have to do. Besides I have lots of book grading to be done. I love my helpers. Their so cute, they were in my 7th grade math class. No worries because they were the good ones.
October 8, 9
Monday and Tuesday
I didn’t want to write about Monday and Tuesday so I just will combine the two days.
This week will be very fast. I love that! I’m hoping I will find something to do over this break. Let me inform you about this holiday. This holiday is set aside for the Buddhists to worship the death. The Buddhist believers during this week will go to the ruins to pay respect to the dead. The family has to buy food and sprinkle rice or whatever around the tomb. This way the dead will rise up and go look for food, but if the food is not their ghost will curse the family name and bring bad fortune. It’s kind of weird. This holiday is one of the most important ones, its right up there with New Years. I don’t understand why New Years is so important, but whatever I get the days off. Ok, I really have to use the bathroom again. I’m sure you all really wanted to know that. Love ya!
October 10-14
Wednesday – Sunday
This week was so relaxing. I caught up on my sleep and played really hard. I was so excited to know that in this country volleyball is mostly played. So Wednesday and Thursday night we played Volleyball at the school. It was so much fun. The boys get so competitive. I don’t know what to think about that. I just like to play for fun and its about winning to them. Ben and Rithy were making me mad while playing. Rithy kept singling me out. He just could not get it through his head that there are front and back rows. I played the front row most of the time and Rithy just wouldn’t drop the fact that he could not pass the ball to me. I don’t like to be singled out when there are 5 other players. I kind of mostly played the front row precisely to annoy Rithy. I wanted to let him know that I’m not the only player on the team. Although he is a good server, he served the ball right to me a couple of times. Oh, and Ben was a just a little to intense. He is kind of like my old Couch V. from high school, but instead of yelling where to stand Ben yelled how to play. Meaning every time the ball came to me he would yell easy easy easy now. Kind of annoying, I know how to play the game and I don’t like it when people are yelling. I didn’t mind Couch V. yelling because he helped me stay focused in the game and would remind me where to stand and tell me what I need to do next time. Ben just was annoying to intense for a game of volleyball game. He made it seem like a tournament; we where just playing a friendly game. Ben was winning a championship.
We also went swimming a lot this break. Yeema and I just went one day. We rode our bikes to the pool and Yeema crashed two times once going and once going back. It was kind of funny, but not at the same time. I was just riding normal and Yeema could not keep up. So I stopped to wait for her. When I looked back she was on the ground. I just started to laugh; I knew she was ok. I asked here what happened she said, “I just fall.” You see she had to go up this little curb and it was slanted, but she was not going fast enough so gravity took her down. On the way home she tried to pass me and got to close to me and swerve to the left then to the right. She was going to hit me so I just stopped and watched her loose control and fall. Yeema was alright. At home I made her food - spaghetti and chicken. We watched a movie also. It was chill. Later on that night we played volleyball again. Good times here in Cambodia.
Other than that my week was pretty un-eventful. Oh, Katrina and Phil went to Ankor Wat. I didn’t go because I didn’t have enough money to go to the beach and Ankor Wat this month (we have another week long break in two weeks). Katrina, Heather and I wanted to go to Vietnam, but we still don’t have our passports. So were going to the beach. It should be fun. Another reason why I don’t go to Ankor Wat, Jake is coming and I want to bring him along with Ben and Kim. I can’t wait for him to come. I was looking at the calendar and February would be a good time. We have Campmeeting here and we don’t have to go because its all in Khmer. So Jake could come one week before Campmeeting to help me out in my class room and the following week we will travel. I can’t wait to see him. It will be good to see some family.
Saturday
B-Day
On my birthday we didn’t do too much, but what do you expect here in Cambodia. No, really it was a good birthday. First off we went to church and after church Fay, Tim, Sharon and Tim provided lunch for me. It was really good. After lunch Fay and Tim took us to these ruins of old kings. We had to climb all theses stairs. Kind of fun! Buddhists believe if you give the beggars money, which the beggars are up and down the stairs to the top, you get good luck. So everyone was asking for money. Little kids were following us up to the top. They were fanning us. The kids just hope you have a heart and give them money for fanning you. I didn’t give money because I didn’t have any. That night we just watched movies at Rithy’s house. Other than that my b-day was good. I enjoyed myself.
October 7
Sunday
Today we were suppose to go to the river, but to many people are sick. So instead I just stayed home and worked on my grades and such, nothing much here. I did get to talk to my family this morning so that was good. Next week we get off Wednesday through Sunday. I’m pretty excited. Oh! Yeah Phil is coming this week. He is our friends from WWU. He is an SM in Thailand. I love Phil he’s so funny. I can’t wait to see what the Khmers think of him because he’s so talk. That reminds me…my brother might be coming to visit me. I will obviously pay for him plane ticket, but I just don’t know when I would want him to come. It would have to be when I have long vacation. This way I could take him to Ankor Wat. I want to go myself sometime. Angelina adopted from there; just a random fact. Heather went to Ankor Wat when we first got here with her pastor from Union College. Hey! Maybe Katrina, Phil and I will go this week.
I have been really worried about Choronei all week. I just keep wondering if he is going to come back. I hope so! I love that kid. I should talk to his brother, he cleans my room in the afternoon. Did I ever tell you? I have helpers now. At school we have this program called Meet me in Heaven. It’s just a work program for the kids to earn money for school. I am supposed to have one helper, but end up having 2 or 3. The girls here don’t do anything by themselves. If one friend has to help they get one of their friends to help out. I don’t mind it because this mean less grading I have to do. Besides I have lots of book grading to be done. I love my helpers. Their so cute, they were in my 7th grade math class. No worries because they were the good ones.
October 8, 9
Monday and Tuesday
I didn’t want to write about Monday and Tuesday so I just will combine the two days.
This week will be very fast. I love that! I’m hoping I will find something to do over this break. Let me inform you about this holiday. This holiday is set aside for the Buddhists to worship the death. The Buddhist believers during this week will go to the ruins to pay respect to the dead. The family has to buy food and sprinkle rice or whatever around the tomb. This way the dead will rise up and go look for food, but if the food is not their ghost will curse the family name and bring bad fortune. It’s kind of weird. This holiday is one of the most important ones, its right up there with New Years. I don’t understand why New Years is so important, but whatever I get the days off. Ok, I really have to use the bathroom again. I’m sure you all really wanted to know that. Love ya!
October 10-14
Wednesday – Sunday
This week was so relaxing. I caught up on my sleep and played really hard. I was so excited to know that in this country volleyball is mostly played. So Wednesday and Thursday night we played Volleyball at the school. It was so much fun. The boys get so competitive. I don’t know what to think about that. I just like to play for fun and its about winning to them. Ben and Rithy were making me mad while playing. Rithy kept singling me out. He just could not get it through his head that there are front and back rows. I played the front row most of the time and Rithy just wouldn’t drop the fact that he could not pass the ball to me. I don’t like to be singled out when there are 5 other players. I kind of mostly played the front row precisely to annoy Rithy. I wanted to let him know that I’m not the only player on the team. Although he is a good server, he served the ball right to me a couple of times. Oh, and Ben was a just a little to intense. He is kind of like my old Couch V. from high school, but instead of yelling where to stand Ben yelled how to play. Meaning every time the ball came to me he would yell easy easy easy now. Kind of annoying, I know how to play the game and I don’t like it when people are yelling. I didn’t mind Couch V. yelling because he helped me stay focused in the game and would remind me where to stand and tell me what I need to do next time. Ben just was annoying to intense for a game of volleyball game. He made it seem like a tournament; we where just playing a friendly game. Ben was winning a championship.
We also went swimming a lot this break. Yeema and I just went one day. We rode our bikes to the pool and Yeema crashed two times once going and once going back. It was kind of funny, but not at the same time. I was just riding normal and Yeema could not keep up. So I stopped to wait for her. When I looked back she was on the ground. I just started to laugh; I knew she was ok. I asked here what happened she said, “I just fall.” You see she had to go up this little curb and it was slanted, but she was not going fast enough so gravity took her down. On the way home she tried to pass me and got to close to me and swerve to the left then to the right. She was going to hit me so I just stopped and watched her loose control and fall. Yeema was alright. At home I made her food - spaghetti and chicken. We watched a movie also. It was chill. Later on that night we played volleyball again. Good times here in Cambodia.
Other than that my week was pretty un-eventful. Oh, Katrina and Phil went to Ankor Wat. I didn’t go because I didn’t have enough money to go to the beach and Ankor Wat this month (we have another week long break in two weeks). Katrina, Heather and I wanted to go to Vietnam, but we still don’t have our passports. So were going to the beach. It should be fun. Another reason why I don’t go to Ankor Wat, Jake is coming and I want to bring him along with Ben and Kim. I can’t wait for him to come. I was looking at the calendar and February would be a good time. We have Campmeeting here and we don’t have to go because its all in Khmer. So Jake could come one week before Campmeeting to help me out in my class room and the following week we will travel. I can’t wait to see him. It will be good to see some family.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
My Boys.
October 3
Wednesday
At first I thought it was going to be another day. But to my surprise I didn’t know I was going to be practicing running the classroom alone. Yes, that is Yeema (Ye-Ma) was sick. She had been telling she wasn’t feeling to good, but I didn’t know it was this bad.
I was standing at flag rising and Yeema never showed up. She is usually late, but never this late. I starting thinking to myself, “Self you’re on your own.” But part of me didn’t want that to happen so I just kept telling myself she would come and not leave me along. Next thing I know Sharon calls over to me, “Liz, Yeema is sick.” My stomach dropped. I didn’t know what to do. I know the day will come when I’m on my own, but still what a surprise to be dropped off at the curb (figure of speech). Any who, I realized I needed to do this all by myself; I could do it, but still. This is a lot of kids to deal with. So the day didn’t go as bad as I was thinking. Towards the end of the day while I was helping the lucky five the other kids got out of control. I told them to sit down and wait for me to get done, but no one listened to me. So I stood up really fast and looked at them. All the kids knew I was at my last straw and quickly walked back to their seats. I made them put their heads on the table for 15 some minutes. I was so mad? At the same time I can understand why they played. I know I would have. I just hope Yeema comes back tomorrow.
October 4
Thursday
I’m extremely home sick today. As I sit here and do my work I find myself thinking about my family. How Jake plays basketball or how loud his music is while driving. My mom’s laugh and smile. Jerry’s work; how he’s determined to get back on to him feet. Wondering why Bobby always says fuck when he laughs, Ashley’s mini farm, Beaver’s work truck and Angie’s shop. These are just the little things I miss.
On a different note, one of my kids broke his wrist (I think). I was sitting at my desk organizing for the next class period when Yeema comes up to me with Choronei holding his arm. At first glance I didn’t think to much anything, but after my double take I realized that Choronei must have broke his wrist. His hand looked elongated; sick. So I ran him up to the office holding his hand o’ so gentle and had Sopheak call him mom. I wanted to make sure Choronei went to the doctor so I kept persisting on the idea. I didn’t want this to go unnoticed by the parents thinking it would fix it’s self. When people don’t have money who knows what they won’t do. I hope he comes to class tomorrow so I can see how he is doing. Choronei is one of my many favorites. He is so good in class. Oh! Speaking of good and bad kids, I started a new punishment today. The kids didn’t seem to mind the corner anymore. So I decided to do wall sits. I have them do them for one minute while balancing a piece of paper on their laps with their hand straight out. Pagna (bung-ya) was my first victim. It was actually kind of funny to see them to it. Yeema and I just laughed at the idea, but thought we needed to do something different. It’s going to be interesting to find out how it’s going to work. If you guys can think of anything else that would work, please tell. I am desperate to get these kids into shape by the time Yeema leaves (2 months). It may seem like a long time, but I can’t believe I have been teaching a month and one week already. It’s mid-terms here next week. WOW! I have been here a month and a half. It doesn’t seem that long ago. This year is going to fly by.
I am almost done with my mid-tem grades I just have 2 more classes to do and just add up the averages on some of the other classes. Not to much, but time consuming. I hope to have it all done Friday afternoon. Only a half day so we’ll see.
October 5
Friday
This morning I found out that one of my kids quit school. They stopped because her mom could not get her to and from school. Karuna (Kar-de-ni) was one of the best kids in the class. I will miss her smiley face. It makes me wonder how many more kids I’m going to loose throughout the year because of the parents. It’s kind of sad to think I just might loose more.
Fay and I were talking about Choronei (broke his wrist) she was thinking like I was, just maybe he won’t go to the hospital because of money. If I could I would pay for him. No kid should grow up with a deformed hand because they didn’t have the money. Although it happens all the time, but if I can help it I will try.
Today I have to stay at the school really late. Katrina and I are going to eat at home, but I need to come back to school and work my butt off. I need to finish up my grades, and print and laminate stuff. I want to put the abc’s and numbers 0 to 9 on the each desk. Most of my kids already know that alphabet but I’m mostly doing it for the lucky 5. They need it. This way when I’m helping they can use it.
Later on…
I didn’t get to use the library as much as I wanted. I did get a lot done grade wise. All I have to do now is finish up 4 subjects and put them on paper Sopheck gave me today. I’m so happy I’m almost done. I have been working on this all week. I tell you what; I will never never be this stupid again. I will always have a paper trail. Ok, so the library. I got the keys and everything ready to go, but when I sat down at the computer to print stuff I noticed it wouldn’t turn on. I tried everything in the world, but I didn’t want to ruin things so I gave up. Heather was with me for a few minute and we walked back home together. At home I just worked more. I worked until sundown; the very last minute.
I didn’t go to vespers because I don’t like to play Bible games and Ben usually does that Friday night. And I know if I went Kim would talk me into something I didn’t what to do. So I just hung out here in the apartment. I actually was watching a movie; Knocked Up. Not a Sabbath movie, don’t follow my examples.
I still can’t believe it’s going to be my b-day tomorrow. No longer in my teens I’m getting old. Just think half way to 40 and ¾ the way to 60 SCARY! Alright I’m not that old, but still can’t believe I’m 20 years old. I still view myself as a high schooler.
Wednesday
At first I thought it was going to be another day. But to my surprise I didn’t know I was going to be practicing running the classroom alone. Yes, that is Yeema (Ye-Ma) was sick. She had been telling she wasn’t feeling to good, but I didn’t know it was this bad.
I was standing at flag rising and Yeema never showed up. She is usually late, but never this late. I starting thinking to myself, “Self you’re on your own.” But part of me didn’t want that to happen so I just kept telling myself she would come and not leave me along. Next thing I know Sharon calls over to me, “Liz, Yeema is sick.” My stomach dropped. I didn’t know what to do. I know the day will come when I’m on my own, but still what a surprise to be dropped off at the curb (figure of speech). Any who, I realized I needed to do this all by myself; I could do it, but still. This is a lot of kids to deal with. So the day didn’t go as bad as I was thinking. Towards the end of the day while I was helping the lucky five the other kids got out of control. I told them to sit down and wait for me to get done, but no one listened to me. So I stood up really fast and looked at them. All the kids knew I was at my last straw and quickly walked back to their seats. I made them put their heads on the table for 15 some minutes. I was so mad? At the same time I can understand why they played. I know I would have. I just hope Yeema comes back tomorrow.
October 4
Thursday
I’m extremely home sick today. As I sit here and do my work I find myself thinking about my family. How Jake plays basketball or how loud his music is while driving. My mom’s laugh and smile. Jerry’s work; how he’s determined to get back on to him feet. Wondering why Bobby always says fuck when he laughs, Ashley’s mini farm, Beaver’s work truck and Angie’s shop. These are just the little things I miss.
On a different note, one of my kids broke his wrist (I think). I was sitting at my desk organizing for the next class period when Yeema comes up to me with Choronei holding his arm. At first glance I didn’t think to much anything, but after my double take I realized that Choronei must have broke his wrist. His hand looked elongated; sick. So I ran him up to the office holding his hand o’ so gentle and had Sopheak call him mom. I wanted to make sure Choronei went to the doctor so I kept persisting on the idea. I didn’t want this to go unnoticed by the parents thinking it would fix it’s self. When people don’t have money who knows what they won’t do. I hope he comes to class tomorrow so I can see how he is doing. Choronei is one of my many favorites. He is so good in class. Oh! Speaking of good and bad kids, I started a new punishment today. The kids didn’t seem to mind the corner anymore. So I decided to do wall sits. I have them do them for one minute while balancing a piece of paper on their laps with their hand straight out. Pagna (bung-ya) was my first victim. It was actually kind of funny to see them to it. Yeema and I just laughed at the idea, but thought we needed to do something different. It’s going to be interesting to find out how it’s going to work. If you guys can think of anything else that would work, please tell. I am desperate to get these kids into shape by the time Yeema leaves (2 months). It may seem like a long time, but I can’t believe I have been teaching a month and one week already. It’s mid-terms here next week. WOW! I have been here a month and a half. It doesn’t seem that long ago. This year is going to fly by.
I am almost done with my mid-tem grades I just have 2 more classes to do and just add up the averages on some of the other classes. Not to much, but time consuming. I hope to have it all done Friday afternoon. Only a half day so we’ll see.
October 5
Friday
This morning I found out that one of my kids quit school. They stopped because her mom could not get her to and from school. Karuna (Kar-de-ni) was one of the best kids in the class. I will miss her smiley face. It makes me wonder how many more kids I’m going to loose throughout the year because of the parents. It’s kind of sad to think I just might loose more.
Fay and I were talking about Choronei (broke his wrist) she was thinking like I was, just maybe he won’t go to the hospital because of money. If I could I would pay for him. No kid should grow up with a deformed hand because they didn’t have the money. Although it happens all the time, but if I can help it I will try.
Today I have to stay at the school really late. Katrina and I are going to eat at home, but I need to come back to school and work my butt off. I need to finish up my grades, and print and laminate stuff. I want to put the abc’s and numbers 0 to 9 on the each desk. Most of my kids already know that alphabet but I’m mostly doing it for the lucky 5. They need it. This way when I’m helping they can use it.
Later on…
I didn’t get to use the library as much as I wanted. I did get a lot done grade wise. All I have to do now is finish up 4 subjects and put them on paper Sopheck gave me today. I’m so happy I’m almost done. I have been working on this all week. I tell you what; I will never never be this stupid again. I will always have a paper trail. Ok, so the library. I got the keys and everything ready to go, but when I sat down at the computer to print stuff I noticed it wouldn’t turn on. I tried everything in the world, but I didn’t want to ruin things so I gave up. Heather was with me for a few minute and we walked back home together. At home I just worked more. I worked until sundown; the very last minute.
I didn’t go to vespers because I don’t like to play Bible games and Ben usually does that Friday night. And I know if I went Kim would talk me into something I didn’t what to do. So I just hung out here in the apartment. I actually was watching a movie; Knocked Up. Not a Sabbath movie, don’t follow my examples.
I still can’t believe it’s going to be my b-day tomorrow. No longer in my teens I’m getting old. Just think half way to 40 and ¾ the way to 60 SCARY! Alright I’m not that old, but still can’t believe I’m 20 years old. I still view myself as a high schooler.
Friday, October 5, 2007
September 29
Saturday
I didn’t go to the 9 o’clock service or 10, but I will go to the 11:30. My butt hurts still and I don’t know if I can sit through several lectures. I have to be sitting on one cheek at a time. Katrina and Heather all went. I will meet up with them at the 11:30 meeting. The 11:30 service does not last as long and there’s cushioned seats. In the mean time I’m uploading more pictures on myspace for you all. How nice of me. I hope we do something fun tonight. I do get tired of watching movies at Rithy’s. I want to see the town at night. Although when, I asked Rithy, why we don’t go anywhere after dark, he said it’s not safe for people, I think he was meaning to emphasized for Americans, meaning me. He’s mostly right.
Tonight we didn’t do much. I wanted to go and do something, but once again we didn’t. Instead we went over to Rithy’s and talked. It was ok. If there is one thing I miss about the states it having something to do on Saturday nights. Maybe that’s why I’m so annoyed; I’m just use to doing something. Ok enough talking.
September 30
Sunday
Today I woke up and ran to the internet shop. I was so happy to talk to some people that I normally don’t talk to, like my Aunty Kim and my friend Yvette. I wanted to talk to my brother Bobby, but the headset was not working right so he stopped picking up the phone. I was a little sad, but can understand why he stopped picking up. Oh and I tried calling my best friend Ashley, but she didn’t pick up either. I guess today was not my day for communication. Other than this I don’t have much else to say. Hopefully I will be a little more exciting tomorrow.
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October 1
Monday
Rabbit rabbit everyone. For those stuck in the Stone Age rabbit rabbit means I stole all of your luck for the whole year. HAHAHAHA! Anyway, I have been bringing my computer to work with me everyday and I love it. At first I was hesitant whether it would go missing, but now I’m more than sure no one would do that. I like to just enter my grades in as they come in makes my night a whole lot less stressful. I can’t believe I’m going to be 20 next weekend. Kind of scary! No more teens. I don’t know exactly what I will be doing, but we will see what comes up. If I’m lucky maybe I could get out of town.
October 2
Tuesday
PE today was really fun. I played soccer with the boys and jump rope with the girls. My girls are so lazy sometimes, kind of annoying, but whatever their kids. My main objective on Tuesday and Thursday is to tier them out. I make them run the circle 2 times after that I let them play whatever they want. I tell them if they don’t run we will just come back to classroom and sit with heads on table. I feel threatening the kids gets them into shape. On computer and library day I tell them the same thing and they don’t make a peep while were there. I really like that.
When Yeema leaves I know I can handle the kids, but I’m scared to be left along with them. What if I can’t understand them and they can’t understand me. THEN WHAT! I still have not talked to Sharon about getting an assistant, but I’m just scared she will say no. Or ask why when the kids should be learning English and you don’t need a translator, but sometimes you do need one. I can understand for kids in 2 grade, but not kindergarten. These kids don’t know any English, but what I constantly tell, SIT DOWN and BE QUITE. Other than that they really don’t understand.
Saturday
I didn’t go to the 9 o’clock service or 10, but I will go to the 11:30. My butt hurts still and I don’t know if I can sit through several lectures. I have to be sitting on one cheek at a time. Katrina and Heather all went. I will meet up with them at the 11:30 meeting. The 11:30 service does not last as long and there’s cushioned seats. In the mean time I’m uploading more pictures on myspace for you all. How nice of me. I hope we do something fun tonight. I do get tired of watching movies at Rithy’s. I want to see the town at night. Although when, I asked Rithy, why we don’t go anywhere after dark, he said it’s not safe for people, I think he was meaning to emphasized for Americans, meaning me. He’s mostly right.
Tonight we didn’t do much. I wanted to go and do something, but once again we didn’t. Instead we went over to Rithy’s and talked. It was ok. If there is one thing I miss about the states it having something to do on Saturday nights. Maybe that’s why I’m so annoyed; I’m just use to doing something. Ok enough talking.
September 30
Sunday
Today I woke up and ran to the internet shop. I was so happy to talk to some people that I normally don’t talk to, like my Aunty Kim and my friend Yvette. I wanted to talk to my brother Bobby, but the headset was not working right so he stopped picking up the phone. I was a little sad, but can understand why he stopped picking up. Oh and I tried calling my best friend Ashley, but she didn’t pick up either. I guess today was not my day for communication. Other than this I don’t have much else to say. Hopefully I will be a little more exciting tomorrow.
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October 1
Monday
Rabbit rabbit everyone. For those stuck in the Stone Age rabbit rabbit means I stole all of your luck for the whole year. HAHAHAHA! Anyway, I have been bringing my computer to work with me everyday and I love it. At first I was hesitant whether it would go missing, but now I’m more than sure no one would do that. I like to just enter my grades in as they come in makes my night a whole lot less stressful. I can’t believe I’m going to be 20 next weekend. Kind of scary! No more teens. I don’t know exactly what I will be doing, but we will see what comes up. If I’m lucky maybe I could get out of town.
October 2
Tuesday
PE today was really fun. I played soccer with the boys and jump rope with the girls. My girls are so lazy sometimes, kind of annoying, but whatever their kids. My main objective on Tuesday and Thursday is to tier them out. I make them run the circle 2 times after that I let them play whatever they want. I tell them if they don’t run we will just come back to classroom and sit with heads on table. I feel threatening the kids gets them into shape. On computer and library day I tell them the same thing and they don’t make a peep while were there. I really like that.
When Yeema leaves I know I can handle the kids, but I’m scared to be left along with them. What if I can’t understand them and they can’t understand me. THEN WHAT! I still have not talked to Sharon about getting an assistant, but I’m just scared she will say no. Or ask why when the kids should be learning English and you don’t need a translator, but sometimes you do need one. I can understand for kids in 2 grade, but not kindergarten. These kids don’t know any English, but what I constantly tell, SIT DOWN and BE QUITE. Other than that they really don’t understand.
Friday, September 28, 2007
September 26
Wednesday
During class today we played fire on the mountain, I figured I would make math exciting. It was really funny to see the kids get into groups of 3, 5, 20, ect. You know towards the end of the game you only have so many kids. Well we actually had 20 kids left and I put them in to groups of 10 then I called out 11. Choronei ran across the room at full speed and grabbed the littlest kid (Samnang) by the waist and started pulling like crazy. The girls banned together and resisted Choronei. Samnang was seriously hanging in the air laughing his head off. I should have stopped it, but Yeema and I just laughed so hard. No one got hurt in the end though.
The rest of the day seemed to go pretty well. I just feel that I’m yelling all the time, SIT DOWN, BE QUITE! If I have to keep this up all year my voice is going die. I don’t know if I have informed you guys about me making my kids something every week? Not anything to big, but just something for them to look forward to. Most of these kids don’t have much in their life to look forward to and if I can help that I will. What better than deserts on Friday after school. The only thing is that I don’t know if I can keep on doing this. It’s pretty costly. Cake and frosting costs me 5 some dollars; I know that may not seem like a lot, but think I only live on $180 a month. I don’t mind spending the money, but if I could get support from my friends and family it would be nice. Thanks. Here is the address just in case;
Liz Spearson
P.O Box 488
Phenom Penh.
Remember it takes about 2 or more weeks to get to me. Thanks again. OH! It would be really nice to get something in the mail letting me know you are alive. I do get tired of talking about myself all the time; not! Joking! LOVE YA! I miss you all so much!
September 27
Thursday
Today was good for the most part. I get so tired right after lunch. To the point where I just let my kids do what ever to an extent. I mean I do teach them the assignment, but once their done I will usually bluff my way through the rest of the class period, but after lunch lately I don’t care. The last period was seriously a joke. The kid did the work in less than 20 mins. What the heck was I going to do for the next 30 mins? I finally just gave into my laziness. Yeema was not feeling good either. The last 15 mins of class I just joked around with the kids. For the first time they asked how old I was. Sopheaktra guessed right on the first try. I was hesitant, but gave in. I figured their kids and 20 is old to them. MAN! I’m getting old. I’m not a kid anymore. I still see myself as a high schooler. Anyway, back on track; the kids. I just joked around saying so and so likes so and so. Surprisingly they understood me. It was so funny. Some of the girls pulled Chamnol over to my desk and asked me to say he like so and so; CUTE! Also today we played fire on the mountain with Katrina’s class (32). It was a big mistake, but I just didn’t know what else to do with math. I just figured it would be funnier with bigger numbers. So I ran over to Katrina’s room and asked if she wanted to play with us. I knew she would, but we both knew it was not a good idea. No matter how loud it got it was fun. I’m just glad Sharon didn’t come by. She would have not of approved.
September 28
Friday
Humpty Dumpy fell off the wall and broke. Liz fell down the stairs (again) bruising her bum. Come on that intro was a little different from my others, LOL! Anyway, I did fall down the stairs and really hurt myself this time. All day I couldn’t be comfortable. Even now I’m sitting on one butt cheek. I never have hurt my tail bone before and know it’s not cool. You can’t do little things like, put up objects from the floor without pain or sit. I just hope it doesn’t hurt this bad for to long. Church tomorrow doesn’t seem to fun considering its all sitting. The only time I’m actually comfortable is when I’m laying down, but who wants to lie all day.
Today was a good day, because it was a half day. Before I knew it I was handing the kids back to their parent’s. I gave the kids their cake the second to last period of the day. We were supposed to make a hat, but since I didn’t have anything planned for Art (last period) I figured we could do it then. It all worked out nicely. We also got payed today, $180. Not much, but something.
It’s my week to clean the apartment so I better get to that before Heather comes back from the market and freaks out. I love and miss you all very much!
Wednesday
During class today we played fire on the mountain, I figured I would make math exciting. It was really funny to see the kids get into groups of 3, 5, 20, ect. You know towards the end of the game you only have so many kids. Well we actually had 20 kids left and I put them in to groups of 10 then I called out 11. Choronei ran across the room at full speed and grabbed the littlest kid (Samnang) by the waist and started pulling like crazy. The girls banned together and resisted Choronei. Samnang was seriously hanging in the air laughing his head off. I should have stopped it, but Yeema and I just laughed so hard. No one got hurt in the end though.
The rest of the day seemed to go pretty well. I just feel that I’m yelling all the time, SIT DOWN, BE QUITE! If I have to keep this up all year my voice is going die. I don’t know if I have informed you guys about me making my kids something every week? Not anything to big, but just something for them to look forward to. Most of these kids don’t have much in their life to look forward to and if I can help that I will. What better than deserts on Friday after school. The only thing is that I don’t know if I can keep on doing this. It’s pretty costly. Cake and frosting costs me 5 some dollars; I know that may not seem like a lot, but think I only live on $180 a month. I don’t mind spending the money, but if I could get support from my friends and family it would be nice. Thanks. Here is the address just in case;
Liz Spearson
P.O Box 488
Phenom Penh.
Remember it takes about 2 or more weeks to get to me. Thanks again. OH! It would be really nice to get something in the mail letting me know you are alive. I do get tired of talking about myself all the time; not! Joking! LOVE YA! I miss you all so much!
September 27
Thursday
Today was good for the most part. I get so tired right after lunch. To the point where I just let my kids do what ever to an extent. I mean I do teach them the assignment, but once their done I will usually bluff my way through the rest of the class period, but after lunch lately I don’t care. The last period was seriously a joke. The kid did the work in less than 20 mins. What the heck was I going to do for the next 30 mins? I finally just gave into my laziness. Yeema was not feeling good either. The last 15 mins of class I just joked around with the kids. For the first time they asked how old I was. Sopheaktra guessed right on the first try. I was hesitant, but gave in. I figured their kids and 20 is old to them. MAN! I’m getting old. I’m not a kid anymore. I still see myself as a high schooler. Anyway, back on track; the kids. I just joked around saying so and so likes so and so. Surprisingly they understood me. It was so funny. Some of the girls pulled Chamnol over to my desk and asked me to say he like so and so; CUTE! Also today we played fire on the mountain with Katrina’s class (32). It was a big mistake, but I just didn’t know what else to do with math. I just figured it would be funnier with bigger numbers. So I ran over to Katrina’s room and asked if she wanted to play with us. I knew she would, but we both knew it was not a good idea. No matter how loud it got it was fun. I’m just glad Sharon didn’t come by. She would have not of approved.
September 28
Friday
Humpty Dumpy fell off the wall and broke. Liz fell down the stairs (again) bruising her bum. Come on that intro was a little different from my others, LOL! Anyway, I did fall down the stairs and really hurt myself this time. All day I couldn’t be comfortable. Even now I’m sitting on one butt cheek. I never have hurt my tail bone before and know it’s not cool. You can’t do little things like, put up objects from the floor without pain or sit. I just hope it doesn’t hurt this bad for to long. Church tomorrow doesn’t seem to fun considering its all sitting. The only time I’m actually comfortable is when I’m laying down, but who wants to lie all day.
Today was a good day, because it was a half day. Before I knew it I was handing the kids back to their parent’s. I gave the kids their cake the second to last period of the day. We were supposed to make a hat, but since I didn’t have anything planned for Art (last period) I figured we could do it then. It all worked out nicely. We also got payed today, $180. Not much, but something.
It’s my week to clean the apartment so I better get to that before Heather comes back from the market and freaks out. I love and miss you all very much!
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
September 24
Monday
No school today, but still I woke up thinking I was late for classes. It’s amazing how your body gets into a system. At times it can work with you or against you. Anyway, I didn’t do much in the morning. It actually went by really really slow. I did a little work, but not much. In the afternoon Katrina, Heather, Ben, Kim and the Laos boys went to the pool. It was really fun. The American girls introduced some american water games, like chicken. One gets on top of the others shouler and you fight to the “death.”
Since it was a holiday here; constitution day the Laos boys wanted to make us dinner. But since they are going to school they don’t have much money so all of us chipped in. They made up fish. Here they cook the fish with everything in it, including the head. I was a little grossed out, but since I’m over here for an adventure I needed to try it. It was actually not bad. I just had Katrina rip me off some meat. Oh, and they made this one stuff, I’m not sure what to call is, but it was so good. Looking at it you would want any, but once it’s in your mouth you just can’t stop eating it. LOL! Need less to say I really loved the dinner they made us.
You know I would just have to say I’m getting pretty good at riding a moto side saddle. I was so scared to do it at first, but once you’ve done it a couple of times you just don’t even think twice about it. Besides most SM’s are looked down upon if they don’t to it. OH! I just have to say that Porm (not sure how to spell it) is really good at volleyball. I love playing with him. He reminds me of Ashley; oh how I miss her. Don’t worry I still love you all. Bye Bye Now!
September 25
Tuesday
Sokhapirum throw-up three times today. I thought he didn’t look to good in the morning. Katrina was doing that for some time. I asked Fay if there was a bug going around and she though Katrina had Guardia. A sickness where you throw-up everything you eat. I just hope Sokhapirum does not have that. Sokhapirum throw-up last week too. Makes me wonder, if he is just getting bad food; any who, I talked to him mother today. I told her that, “He throw-up three times and did this last week. If Sokhapirum is not feeling good tomorrow don’t bring him to class.” We will just see what happen. If he throws-up tomorrow I will just send him home.
So I finally talked to Sharon about maybe reimbursing me for the books that I bought for my class. She said that was fine, but I felt she was a little annoyed. Tim (co-worker) told me that you have to approach Sharon in a certain way. You have to make it her idea. If not, your most likely to be shut down. I didn’t do that today. While I was talking to her she looked at me like why did you go out and buy books for your class. Truthfully I don’t think the books we have are all that great. I mean they do teach the material, but kids need different variety, and I’m willing to pay for that. Other than that I didn’t do much today. We did have this really long teachers meeting about our committee’s. The teachers decided on whether we wanted to do certain events during the year. Oh! I guess a helper. Nice to know this; one month later!
I don’t want Yeema to leave were becoming good friends. She makes work enjoyable. I still need to talk to Sharon about finding an assistant all year. I just can’t teach all though kids by myself. Last week I could tell I was starting to loose my patience with Try Try Net and Sreynut. I didn’t even help them today because I just get to angry! They don’t do anything and I have so many kids that want to learn. I don’t KNOW! Just pray that I have patience with them and pray that Sharon has mercy on me and finds an assistant for the whole year. LOVE YA!
Monday
No school today, but still I woke up thinking I was late for classes. It’s amazing how your body gets into a system. At times it can work with you or against you. Anyway, I didn’t do much in the morning. It actually went by really really slow. I did a little work, but not much. In the afternoon Katrina, Heather, Ben, Kim and the Laos boys went to the pool. It was really fun. The American girls introduced some american water games, like chicken. One gets on top of the others shouler and you fight to the “death.”
Since it was a holiday here; constitution day the Laos boys wanted to make us dinner. But since they are going to school they don’t have much money so all of us chipped in. They made up fish. Here they cook the fish with everything in it, including the head. I was a little grossed out, but since I’m over here for an adventure I needed to try it. It was actually not bad. I just had Katrina rip me off some meat. Oh, and they made this one stuff, I’m not sure what to call is, but it was so good. Looking at it you would want any, but once it’s in your mouth you just can’t stop eating it. LOL! Need less to say I really loved the dinner they made us.
You know I would just have to say I’m getting pretty good at riding a moto side saddle. I was so scared to do it at first, but once you’ve done it a couple of times you just don’t even think twice about it. Besides most SM’s are looked down upon if they don’t to it. OH! I just have to say that Porm (not sure how to spell it) is really good at volleyball. I love playing with him. He reminds me of Ashley; oh how I miss her. Don’t worry I still love you all. Bye Bye Now!
September 25
Tuesday
Sokhapirum throw-up three times today. I thought he didn’t look to good in the morning. Katrina was doing that for some time. I asked Fay if there was a bug going around and she though Katrina had Guardia. A sickness where you throw-up everything you eat. I just hope Sokhapirum does not have that. Sokhapirum throw-up last week too. Makes me wonder, if he is just getting bad food; any who, I talked to him mother today. I told her that, “He throw-up three times and did this last week. If Sokhapirum is not feeling good tomorrow don’t bring him to class.” We will just see what happen. If he throws-up tomorrow I will just send him home.
So I finally talked to Sharon about maybe reimbursing me for the books that I bought for my class. She said that was fine, but I felt she was a little annoyed. Tim (co-worker) told me that you have to approach Sharon in a certain way. You have to make it her idea. If not, your most likely to be shut down. I didn’t do that today. While I was talking to her she looked at me like why did you go out and buy books for your class. Truthfully I don’t think the books we have are all that great. I mean they do teach the material, but kids need different variety, and I’m willing to pay for that. Other than that I didn’t do much today. We did have this really long teachers meeting about our committee’s. The teachers decided on whether we wanted to do certain events during the year. Oh! I guess a helper. Nice to know this; one month later!
I don’t want Yeema to leave were becoming good friends. She makes work enjoyable. I still need to talk to Sharon about finding an assistant all year. I just can’t teach all though kids by myself. Last week I could tell I was starting to loose my patience with Try Try Net and Sreynut. I didn’t even help them today because I just get to angry! They don’t do anything and I have so many kids that want to learn. I don’t KNOW! Just pray that I have patience with them and pray that Sharon has mercy on me and finds an assistant for the whole year. LOVE YA!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
September 20
Thursday
This week it has been pretty cool. It’s rained every night. One day during the week I was soaking wet from standing out site with my kids saying good bye. I started making my kids say good bye to me before they leave. There so cute with palms together saying, “Good bye teacher Liz.”
Anyway, the corner punishment seems to work pretty well. I threaten them with going over to Teacher Kim’s room. Most of them say NO! I also bribe them with cookies and such. I tell them if their good I will bring cookies to only the good boys and girls. I really like the idea of making my kids something on Friday. It gives them something to look forward to.
Something funny, but not at the same time, I totally forgot to make my lesson plans for next week. LOL! I just got so hung up in the week that I forgot. Good thing Sharon didn’t really seem to care. I will try and do though tonight. But I have so much to do already. I don’t know.
September 21
Friday
Ok, so I didn’t get my lesson plans done last night, but I at least started on them. Hopefully I will get them done Sunday. School was good today. The last 20 mins of class we played duck duck goose. The kids love that game. I made them peanut butter cookies today. They seemed to love them. Friday’s are always a test day or game day. I did a little of both. I tested them on A though I. One by one I called them and wrote A though I on paper. The other test was shapes; heart, circle, square, rectangle, star, and triangle. We have been working on these shapes for two weeks. I wanted to be done with them last week, but most of the kids didn’t know them. I would say the majority of the class knew the shapes, but we need to start of other shapes. I will keep reviewing them though.
Sreynut and Try Try Net didn’t do to well on the tests today, but I don’t know what to do. I can’t sit there with them and do the assignments for them. I just have to many kids in my class that want to learn and have a better understanding of the lesson. I feel bad I can’t help them more. I will try and talk to Sharon about hiring an assistant all year. She will most likely shut me down, but who knows.
September 22
Saturday
Nothing much here on Saturday, we just hung out in our apartment. Kim made us Sabbath lunch. I guess we hung out at Kim’s for sometime, but nothing to exciting. At 2 we went to the school and taught dorm choir. I don’t think I ever told you that I’m on the music committee. Ben and Kim are in it too. We are getting together choirs to sing at different churches and for various events during the week. I like it. Although I don’t really have time to squeeze one more thing into my busy schedule; I will because, it gives the dorm students something to do. I remember how it was on Saturday in the dorm.
I convince the Angie, the director, to make a dynamics. She is going to make a select choir. I’m kind of excited to hear them. Mrs. Roger will be proud.
September 23
Sunday
Today was a particularly good day. I got so much work done and talked to my parents. I finally bought a grading system and really like it. I’m starting to feel more organized. After work Katrina, Heather, Kim and I all went to the IBC (International Book Center) it was nice, but I spent way more than I wanted to; $40. But I only bought one thing for myself; the rest was for my kids and the classroom. I have a feeling I will be spending quite a bit of money on them. I have no problem with that, but if you guys in the states can send me stuff or think of ideas that I could do in class please tell me. I’m desperate. The school does not have much to offer when it comes to school supplies and creative thinking. All the Khmer teachers only stick to the books, and so do I, but I want to give them a variety of learning methods. Which is why I bought several different books for kindergarten, I figured I could just copy the pages in the books and donate to the school after I leave. Heather said last night that I should consider bringing my receipts to Sharon and asking if she could at least pay for half. I don’t know what she will say; worth a try.
Tonight was nothing exciting. We just watched a movie. Tomorrow is no school so I’m pretty excited. I think we might go swimming or Heather wants to go to an art gallery in the afternoon. We do need to go shopping for food though, so we will see.
Thursday
This week it has been pretty cool. It’s rained every night. One day during the week I was soaking wet from standing out site with my kids saying good bye. I started making my kids say good bye to me before they leave. There so cute with palms together saying, “Good bye teacher Liz.”
Anyway, the corner punishment seems to work pretty well. I threaten them with going over to Teacher Kim’s room. Most of them say NO! I also bribe them with cookies and such. I tell them if their good I will bring cookies to only the good boys and girls. I really like the idea of making my kids something on Friday. It gives them something to look forward to.
Something funny, but not at the same time, I totally forgot to make my lesson plans for next week. LOL! I just got so hung up in the week that I forgot. Good thing Sharon didn’t really seem to care. I will try and do though tonight. But I have so much to do already. I don’t know.
September 21
Friday
Ok, so I didn’t get my lesson plans done last night, but I at least started on them. Hopefully I will get them done Sunday. School was good today. The last 20 mins of class we played duck duck goose. The kids love that game. I made them peanut butter cookies today. They seemed to love them. Friday’s are always a test day or game day. I did a little of both. I tested them on A though I. One by one I called them and wrote A though I on paper. The other test was shapes; heart, circle, square, rectangle, star, and triangle. We have been working on these shapes for two weeks. I wanted to be done with them last week, but most of the kids didn’t know them. I would say the majority of the class knew the shapes, but we need to start of other shapes. I will keep reviewing them though.
Sreynut and Try Try Net didn’t do to well on the tests today, but I don’t know what to do. I can’t sit there with them and do the assignments for them. I just have to many kids in my class that want to learn and have a better understanding of the lesson. I feel bad I can’t help them more. I will try and talk to Sharon about hiring an assistant all year. She will most likely shut me down, but who knows.
September 22
Saturday
Nothing much here on Saturday, we just hung out in our apartment. Kim made us Sabbath lunch. I guess we hung out at Kim’s for sometime, but nothing to exciting. At 2 we went to the school and taught dorm choir. I don’t think I ever told you that I’m on the music committee. Ben and Kim are in it too. We are getting together choirs to sing at different churches and for various events during the week. I like it. Although I don’t really have time to squeeze one more thing into my busy schedule; I will because, it gives the dorm students something to do. I remember how it was on Saturday in the dorm.
I convince the Angie, the director, to make a dynamics. She is going to make a select choir. I’m kind of excited to hear them. Mrs. Roger will be proud.
September 23
Sunday
Today was a particularly good day. I got so much work done and talked to my parents. I finally bought a grading system and really like it. I’m starting to feel more organized. After work Katrina, Heather, Kim and I all went to the IBC (International Book Center) it was nice, but I spent way more than I wanted to; $40. But I only bought one thing for myself; the rest was for my kids and the classroom. I have a feeling I will be spending quite a bit of money on them. I have no problem with that, but if you guys in the states can send me stuff or think of ideas that I could do in class please tell me. I’m desperate. The school does not have much to offer when it comes to school supplies and creative thinking. All the Khmer teachers only stick to the books, and so do I, but I want to give them a variety of learning methods. Which is why I bought several different books for kindergarten, I figured I could just copy the pages in the books and donate to the school after I leave. Heather said last night that I should consider bringing my receipts to Sharon and asking if she could at least pay for half. I don’t know what she will say; worth a try.
Tonight was nothing exciting. We just watched a movie. Tomorrow is no school so I’m pretty excited. I think we might go swimming or Heather wants to go to an art gallery in the afternoon. We do need to go shopping for food though, so we will see.
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